tragedy英文名词解释(一)
tragedy英文名词解释
1. Definition
•Tragedy is a genre of literature, drama, and film that focuses on the sorrowful or disastrous events faced by the main characters, leading to their ultimate downfall or destruction.
2. Types of Tragedy
There are several types of tragedy, each with its distinctive characteristics:
i. Classical Tragedy
genre•Classical tragedy refers to the tragic plays written by ancient Greek and Roman playwrights, such as Sophocles and Euripides. These plays typically feature a protagonist with a fatal flaw (hamartia) that leads to their downfall. Examples include Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex” and Euripides’ “Medea.”
ii. Shakespearean Tragedy
•Shakespearean tragedy refers to the tragic plays written by William Shakespeare. These plays involve characters of high social status, intense emotions, and fate that contributes to their tragic ending. Examples include “Hamlet,” “Macbeth,” and “Romeo and Juliet.”
iii. Modern Tragedy
•Modern tragedy encompasses tragic works written in more recent times, often exploring societal or existential themes. These plays may not follow the traditional structure of classical or Shakespearean tragedy. Examples include Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman” and Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
3. Elements of Tragedy
Tragedies typically incorporate certain key elements that contribute to their tragic nature:
i. Tragic Hero/Heroine
•The tragic hero/heroine is the central character in a tragedy who possesses admirable qualities but has a fatal flaw or commits a significant mistake. This flaw or mistake ultimately leads to their downfall. For example, Macbeth’s ambition in Shakespeare’s play leads to his tragic end.
ii. Conflict
•Tragedies often involve a conflict between the protagonist and external forces, such as society, fate, or antagonists. This conflict intensifies the tragic events and adds tension to the plot. In “Hamlet,” the conflict between Hamlet and his uncle, who killed his father, drives the tragic narrative.
iii. Catharsis
•Catharsis refers to the emotional release or purging experienced by the audience while witnessing the tragic events unfold. Tragedies aim to evoke strong emotions, such as pity and fear, in the audience, providing them with a sense of emotional relief or insight. Shakes
peare’s “King Lear” elicits catharsis through the tragic consequences of King Lear’s actions.
4. Conclusion
Tragedy is a powerful genre that delves into the human capacity for suffering and the consequences of flawed choices. Whether it’s the ancient Greek plays, Shakespearean tragedies, or modern works, tragedies continue to captivate and move audiences, leaving a lasting impact.
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